Which medical specialist is best equipped to diagnose and treat hemorrhoids. How to find the right gastroenterologist for your needs. What factors should you consider when selecting a doctor for hemorrhoid treatment.

Understanding Gastroenterology and Hemorrhoid Treatment

Hemorrhoids are a common yet uncomfortable condition affecting many individuals. When seeking medical attention for this issue, it’s crucial to understand which type of doctor specializes in treating hemorrhoids and other related gastrointestinal conditions.

What is a Gastroenterologist?

A gastroenterologist is a medical doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating disorders of the digestive system, including the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, rectum, pancreas, gallbladder, bile ducts, and liver. These specialists are well-equipped to handle various gastrointestinal issues, including hemorrhoids.

Why See a Gastroenterologist for Hemorrhoids?

Gastroenterologists have extensive training in colorectal health and are experienced in diagnosing and treating hemorrhoids. They can provide comprehensive care, from initial assessment to advanced treatment options if necessary. Their expertise ensures that you receive the most appropriate and effective treatment for your specific condition.

Types of Gastroenterologists and Their Specialties

While all gastroenterologists are trained to treat general digestive issues, some may have additional expertise in specific areas. Understanding these subspecialties can help you choose the most suitable doctor for your needs.

• General Gastroenterologists: Treat a wide range of digestive disorders
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease Specialists
• Pancreatic Disease Experts
• Liver Disease Specialists
• GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) Experts
• Endoscopy Specialists

What is a Hepatologist?

A hepatologist is a gastroenterologist who has undergone additional training to specialize in liver, gallbladder, bile duct, and pancreatic diseases. While they may not typically focus on hemorrhoid treatment, their expertise can be valuable if you have concurrent liver or pancreatic issues.

Finding the Best Gastroenterologist for Hemorrhoid Treatment

Selecting the right gastroenterologist for your hemorrhoid treatment is crucial for ensuring effective care and a comfortable experience. Here are some strategies to help you find the best specialist:

1. Consult your primary care physician for recommendations
2. Ask friends and family for referrals
3. Research online reviews and doctor profiles
4. Check the doctor’s credentials and experience
5. Consider the location and accessibility of their practice

How can you verify a gastroenterologist’s credentials?

To ensure you’re seeing a qualified specialist, verify their credentials through these steps:

• Check their board certification status with the American Board of Internal Medicine
• Look for membership in professional organizations like the American Gastroenterological Association
• Review their education and training background on their practice website or professional profiles
• Inquire about their specific experience treating hemorrhoids

Insurance Considerations When Choosing a Gastroenterologist

Understanding your insurance coverage is essential when selecting a gastroenterologist for hemorrhoid treatment. Here are some tips to ensure you choose an in-network provider:

• Contact your insurance company for a list of covered gastroenterologists
• Verify coverage directly with the doctor’s office before scheduling an appointment
• Inquire about any potential out-of-pocket costs or copayments
• Ask about billing practices and payment options if you have a high deductible plan

Can insurance coverage affect the quality of hemorrhoid treatment?

While insurance coverage is an important consideration, it doesn’t necessarily reflect the quality of care you’ll receive. Many excellent gastroenterologists accept a wide range of insurance plans. Focus on finding a balance between affordability and the specialist’s expertise in treating hemorrhoids.

Key Factors to Consider When Selecting a Gastroenterologist

Beyond insurance and credentials, several other factors can influence your choice of gastroenterologist for hemorrhoid treatment:

• Office location and accessibility
• Wait times for appointments
• Availability of telemedicine options
• The doctor’s communication style and bedside manner
• Specific experience with hemorrhoid treatment
• Hospital affiliations
• Patient reviews and satisfaction ratings

How important is a gastroenterologist’s personality when treating hemorrhoids?

A doctor’s personality and communication style can significantly impact your treatment experience. Hemorrhoids can be a sensitive topic, so it’s crucial to find a gastroenterologist who makes you feel comfortable discussing your symptoms and concerns. Look for a specialist who is empathetic, attentive, and willing to answer your questions thoroughly.

Ensuring Culturally Sensitive Care in Gastroenterology

Finding a gastroenterologist who is sensitive to your racial, ethnic, or sexual orientation can enhance your overall care experience. Here are some strategies to find a culturally competent specialist:

• Research doctors’ backgrounds and cultural experiences
• Look for specialists who have undergone cultural competency training
• Check for memberships in organizations promoting diversity in healthcare
• Consider telemedicine options to access a wider pool of diverse specialists
• Ask your primary care physician for recommendations of culturally sensitive gastroenterologists

How does cultural competence affect hemorrhoid treatment?

Cultural competence in healthcare can lead to better communication, increased trust, and improved patient outcomes. A culturally sensitive gastroenterologist may be more attuned to specific dietary or lifestyle factors that could influence your hemorrhoid treatment plan, ensuring a more personalized and effective approach to your care.

The Role of Gut Health in Hemorrhoid Prevention and Treatment

While seeking treatment for hemorrhoids, it’s essential to consider overall gut health. A healthy digestive system can help prevent hemorrhoids and support faster healing. Here are some tips for maintaining optimal gut health:

• Incorporate fiber-rich foods into your diet
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water
• Exercise regularly to promote healthy bowel movements
• Consider adding probiotic foods or supplements to your diet
• Manage stress through relaxation techniques or meditation
• Avoid straining during bowel movements

Can improving gut health help with hemorrhoid symptoms?

Yes, maintaining good gut health can significantly impact hemorrhoid symptoms. A balanced diet rich in fiber can soften stools and reduce straining, which is a common cause of hemorrhoids. Additionally, a healthy gut microbiome can support overall digestive health, potentially reducing inflammation and promoting healing of hemorrhoid tissues.

Navigating Hemorrhoid Treatment Options with Your Gastroenterologist

Once you’ve selected a gastroenterologist for your hemorrhoid treatment, it’s important to understand the various treatment options available. Your specialist may recommend different approaches based on the severity of your condition:

• Lifestyle modifications and dietary changes
• Topical treatments and medications
• Minimally invasive procedures like rubber band ligation
• Surgical options for severe or recurring hemorrhoids

How do gastroenterologists determine the best treatment for hemorrhoids?

Gastroenterologists assess several factors to determine the most appropriate treatment for hemorrhoids, including:

• The size and location of the hemorrhoids
• The severity of symptoms
• Your overall health and medical history
• Previous treatments you’ve tried
• Your preferences and lifestyle considerations

By considering these factors, your gastroenterologist can develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.

The Importance of Follow-Up Care in Hemorrhoid Treatment

After initiating treatment for hemorrhoids, maintaining regular follow-up appointments with your gastroenterologist is crucial. These check-ups allow your doctor to monitor your progress, adjust treatments if necessary, and address any new concerns that may arise.

How often should you see your gastroenterologist for hemorrhoid follow-ups?

The frequency of follow-up appointments can vary depending on your individual case and the treatment approach. Generally, you might expect:

• Initial follow-up within 2-4 weeks of starting treatment
• Subsequent check-ups every 3-6 months, or as recommended by your doctor
• Immediate appointments if you experience worsening symptoms or complications

Regular communication with your gastroenterologist ensures that your hemorrhoid treatment remains effective and allows for timely adjustments to your care plan as needed.

Complementary Approaches to Hemorrhoid Management

While medical treatment is often necessary for hemorrhoids, complementary approaches can support healing and prevent recurrence. Discuss these options with your gastroenterologist to determine which might be beneficial for your situation:

• Sitz baths to soothe irritation and reduce inflammation
• Herbal supplements like witch hazel or horse chestnut
• Pelvic floor exercises to improve muscle tone
• Mindfulness techniques to manage stress and promote relaxation
• Acupuncture or acupressure for pain relief

Are natural remedies effective for treating hemorrhoids?

Some natural remedies can provide relief from hemorrhoid symptoms and support healing. However, their effectiveness can vary from person to person. It’s important to consult with your gastroenterologist before trying any natural treatments to ensure they won’t interfere with your prescribed medical care or cause unintended side effects.

Understanding the Link Between Hemorrhoids and Other Digestive Conditions

Hemorrhoids can sometimes be a symptom of other underlying digestive issues. Your gastroenterologist will consider this possibility during your evaluation and may recommend additional tests or screenings if necessary. Some conditions that may be associated with hemorrhoids include:

• Chronic constipation or diarrhea
• Inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis
• Colorectal cancer
• Anal fissures
• Rectal prolapse

How do gastroenterologists differentiate between hemorrhoids and other conditions?

Gastroenterologists use a combination of methods to accurately diagnose hemorrhoids and rule out other conditions:

• Thorough medical history and symptom review
• Physical examination, including a digital rectal exam
• Visual inspection using anoscopy or colonoscopy
• Imaging studies like endoanal ultrasound, if necessary
• Blood tests to check for signs of inflammation or other abnormalities

This comprehensive approach ensures that you receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment for your specific condition.

Preventing Hemorrhoid Recurrence: Long-Term Strategies

After successful treatment of hemorrhoids, it’s important to focus on prevention to avoid future flare-ups. Your gastroenterologist can provide guidance on long-term strategies to maintain colorectal health and reduce the risk of hemorrhoid recurrence. Some key preventive measures include:

• Maintaining a high-fiber diet
• Staying adequately hydrated
• Engaging in regular physical activity
• Avoiding prolonged sitting or standing
• Practicing good bathroom habits, such as not straining during bowel movements
• Managing underlying conditions that may contribute to hemorrhoids

How effective are lifestyle changes in preventing hemorrhoid recurrence?

Lifestyle modifications can be highly effective in preventing hemorrhoid recurrence. Many patients find that by consistently implementing these changes, they can significantly reduce their risk of developing new hemorrhoids or experiencing flare-ups of existing ones. Your gastroenterologist can help you develop a personalized prevention plan tailored to your specific needs and risk factors.

The Future of Hemorrhoid Treatment: Advances in Gastroenterology

As medical research progresses, new treatments and techniques for managing hemorrhoids continue to emerge. Staying informed about these advancements can help you make educated decisions about your care. Some promising areas of development in hemorrhoid treatment include:

• Minimally invasive surgical techniques
• Advanced topical medications with improved efficacy
• Novel devices for outpatient hemorrhoid treatment
• Personalized treatment approaches based on genetic factors
• Integration of telemedicine for ongoing hemorrhoid management

How can patients stay informed about new hemorrhoid treatments?

To stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in hemorrhoid treatment:

• Maintain regular check-ups with your gastroenterologist
• Ask about new treatment options during your appointments
• Follow reputable medical news sources and professional gastroenterology organizations
• Participate in patient education programs offered by your healthcare provider
• Consider joining support groups or online forums for individuals with hemorrhoids

By staying informed and maintaining open communication with your gastroenterologist, you can ensure that you have access to the most effective and up-to-date treatments for your hemorrhoid condition.

What Is a Gastroenterologist and What Do They Treat?

Are There Different Types of Gastroenterologists?

While some gastroenterologists treat general GI diseases, others cultivate an area of expertise within their specialty. For instance, they may have specific knowledge or experience in managing:

• Inflammatory bowel diseases
• Pancreatic disease
• Liver disease
• Liver transplantation
• GERD
• Conditions that require complicated endoscopic procedures

A gastroenterologist may choose to become a hepatologist: a doctor who specializes in diseases of the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas. A hepatologist must complete a three-year fellowship in gastroenterology with an additional year of concentrated training in hepatology.

Gastroenterologists often work closely with surgeons, oncologists (doctors who specialize in cancer), and radiologists (doctors who specialize in imaging).

How Do I Find the Best Doctor for Gastroenterology?

Your primary care physician is a good place to start. Your doctor likely knows some of the best specialists in your area and can provide you with a list of gastroenterologists to consider.

Word of mouth is another way to find a gastroenterologist who fits your needs. Try asking friends or family members for recommendations.

You can also do a little research yourself. A practice’s website will often feature the doctor’s bio, which includes information like their credentials, education, areas of special interest, and more. Reading online reviews can supply you with feedback from other patients.

How Can I Find Out if a Gastroenterologist Accepts My Insurance?

Your insurance company should supply you with a hard copy or online list of gastroenterologists in your area who accept your coverage. However, it’s a good idea to call your insurance provider and confirm that the specialist you’re considering is on your policy. Physician lists are often out of date.

What Other Factors Should I Consider When Selecting a Gastroenterologist?

When choosing a gastroenterologist, you might want to consider the following factors:

• The location of the office in relation to where you live
• The doctor’s experience, education, and credentials
• The doctor’s subspecialities or special interests
• The procedures the doctor performs or doesn’t perform
• The doctor’s personality
• Hospitals that the doctor is affiliated with
• Whether the practice offers telemedicine options
• How long you’ll have to wait for an appointment
• Whether the office accepts new patients

Some gastroenterologists offer in-person or telehealth consultations for prospective patients. This visit gives you a chance to ask questions and determine if you and the physician are well matched.

How Do I Find a Gastroenterologist Who Will Be Sensitive to My Racial or Ethnic Background and Sexual Orientation?

It’s important to feel comfortable with your doctor, but finding a gastroenterologist who is sensitive to your race, ethnicity, or sexual orientation may take a little bit of effort. If you are having trouble finding a doctor who shares your background, it could be helpful to research your prospective doctor’s memberships and affiliations. This information could help you determine if they make an active effort in educating themselves or advocating about inequities in the healthcare system.

Telemedicine visits also give you an opportunity to see a doctor of your choice who isn’t necessarily located in your area.

9 Signs of an Unhealthy Gut — and What You Can Do About It

An unhealthy gut is tied to a range of symptoms, from acne to unintentional weight changes. Follow these steps to restore balance to your gut health.

By Erica PatinoJune 12, 2023

11 Tips for Better Digestive Health

Maintaining a healthy digestive system is essential because it turns foods into nourishment. Learn 11 tips to improve your digestive health.

By Krisha McCoyMay 13, 2023

9 Foods That Help Relieve Nausea

Eating may be the last thing on your mind when your stomach is queasy, but some foods actually ease the symptoms and help stop nausea.

By Melissa JohnsonMarch 21, 2023

5 Ways to Incorporate More Fermented Foods Into Your Diet

Fermented foods act as a natural probiotic supplement, helping to populate your gut with good microbes. Here are 5 easy, dietitian-approved ways to add…

By Rachel Dyckman, RDNMarch 20, 2023

The Link Between Your Gut Microbiome and Your Health

Your gut microbiome, or the bacteria in your gut, can have a surprising impact on your health. Find out what steps you can take to promote your gut health…

By Erica PatinoFebruary 16, 2023

What Doctor to See for Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids

Without medical expertise, knowing what doctor to see for hemorrhoids can be difficult. There are a few doctors who may be able to help with your symptoms, but it will depend on your individual experience. Minor cases may only need a primary care physician, while others may need a surgeon. In most cases, if you have the time, it’s better to be preferred by your physician.

Table of Contents

• What Are hemorrhoids?
• When to See a Doctor for Hemorrhoids?
• Which Doctor Should You See for Hemorrhoids?
• How to Treat Hemorrhoids Yourself?
• How Can DrHouse Help You?
• Key Takeaways

What Are hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are swollen lumps that form on the inside and outside of your rectum. They can be painful and irritable, and may even cause rectal bleeding. The lumps are a result of inflamed and swollen veins inside the rectum. Aside from bleeding, you may find your rectum to be both itchy and irritable, and it can be difficult to relieve.

Generally, hemorrhoids are only a minor condition and should clear up within a few days. It’s also a very common condition, but there are some occasions when you would need to see a doctor over your hemorrhoids.

When to See a Doctor for Hemorrhoids?

While most cases of hemorrhoids will clear up over the course of a few days, there are some cases that call for a doctor’s input. Your hemorrhoids may last longer than a week or could cause greater complications than just minor hemorrhoid symptoms.

You should call your doctor as soon as possible if your hemorrhoid symptoms haven’t gone away after a week.

If your condition is worsening each day, it could be a sign of a great complication than just a hemorrhoid. You may be experiencing hemorrhoid thrombosis, in which a professional would have to intervene.

Bleeding or a lack of bowel control are also severe symptoms that you should contact your doctor about. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

Which Doctor Should You See for Hemorrhoids?

Depending on your condition, you may require the expertise of a specialist, in which case a primary care physician isn’t going to be enough. 

Primary Care Physician

If you’re unsure of how severe your symptoms are, you should visit a primary care physician first. You can discuss your symptoms, as well as have a physical examination done to get a better understanding of your condition.

Your primary care physician can use your symptoms and condition to help you find the right specialist for the job, as over-the-counter treatments may not be effective for your case.

Gastroenterologist

A gastroenterologist is qualified to diagnose your hemorrhoid condition, as well as prescribe you the suitable treatment for it. However, they’re not always the right choice. The gastroenterologist may decide that colonoscopy is the best course of action, which will allow them to get a better idea of your condition.

Hemorrhoid ligation or hemorrhoid banding may be performed by your gastroenterologist, which is the act of tying a band around a hemorrhoid, cutting off its blood circulation. Within a week, your hemorrhoid should fall off completely. Note, that procedure this can cause bleeding, but it will remove the swollen hemorrhoid.

Proctologist

A proctologist, or surgeon, would be necessary if your hemorrhoid needed surgically removed. Severe cases will require a hemorrhoidectomy, in which the surgeon will remove your external hemorrhoids completely. If your hemorrhoids are causing a blood clot externally, this is known as hemorrhoid thrombosis. Your proctologist may need to perform a hemorrhoid thrombectomy to prevent further complications.

Online Doctor

Booking an appointment with your doctor can take time, and speaking with a doctor face to face about it might be embarrassing – especially if you’re unsure of your condition. Speaking to an online doctor can help you to get professional advice, without having to visit the physician’s office. Some online doctors will also be able to prescribe you your medication to help relieve the symptoms.

How to Treat Hemorrhoids Yourself?

Hemorrhoid Relief

If you haven’t gone to see a doctor, there are a few ways you can relieve your symptoms at home. You don’t always need the help of a doctor, and simply soaking in hot water may help to relieve some of the swelling and the pain – if only temporarily.

You can also help to relieve the pain by using common anti-inflammatory products like aspirin or ibuprofen. While it won’t cure your condition, it will help to bring the swelling down for a short time, giving you some relief throughout the day. No matter how uncomfortable your condition is, do not take more than recommended on the packaging.

Hemorrhoid Treatment

There are a few OTC treatments you can get your hands on, but some of them may require your doctor to prescribe them. There are creams to help treat your hemorrhoids, as well as suppositories that you can use at home. This treatment should reduce the swelling as well as relieve the pain that you’re experiencing as a result of the condition.

How Can DrHouse Help You?

DrHouse can help you to get in touch with a professional doctor within minutes. You don’t have to wait weeks for an appointment, only to be told your condition is a false alarm, or that you’ll just have to wait it out. You can be in contact with a trained doctor, ready to help you at any time of the day.

Get Hemorrhoids Treatment Online

Key Takeaways

• Most hemorrhoid cases won’t require you to visit a doctor and will go away within a week of appearing.
• You should visit your primary care physician if your conditions are severe, getting worse each day, or have lasted longer than one week.
• Your primary care physician can help you to decide on the best course of action for your symptoms. They may also refer you to another specialist if your condition can’t be easily treated.
• Your gastroenterologist can diagnose your hemorrhoids, as well as perform internal procedures such as ligation.
• Seeing a proctologist is necessary if your hemorrhoids need to be surgically removed.

Sources:

• Amy Halverson, Hemorrhoids, Clin Colon Rectal Surg 2007; 20(2): 077-085. DOI: https://www.doi.org/10.1055/s-2007-977485 
• Eberspacher C, Mascagni D, Antypas P, et al. External hemorrhoidal thrombosis in the elderly patients: conservative and surgical management. Minerva Chirurgica. 2020 Apr;75(2):117-120. DOI: https://www.doi.org/10.23736/s0026-4733.18.07724-6 . PMID: 30600960.
• Hemorrhoids Treatment. WebMD. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/understanding-hemorrhoids-treatment-medref 
• Albuquerque A. Rubber band ligation of hemorrhoids: A guide for complications. World J Gastrointest Surg. 2016;8(9):614-620. Doi: https://www.doi.org/10.4240/wjgs.v8.i9.614 
• Yeo D, Tan KY. Hemorrhoidectomy – making sense of the surgical options. World J Gastroenterol. 2014;20(45):16976-16983. doi:https://www.doi.org/10.3748/wjg.v20.i45.16976 

DrHouse articles are written by MDs, NPs, nutritionists and other healthcare professionals. The contents of the DrHouse site are for informational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you are experiencing high fever (>103F/39.4C), shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, chest pain, heart palpitations, abnormal bruising, abnormal bleeding, extreme fatigue, dizziness, new weakness or paralysis, difficulty with speech, confusion, extreme pain in any body part, or inability to remain hydrated or keep down fluids or feel you may have any other life-threatening condition, please go to the emergency department or call 911 immediately.

What does a proctologist treat and how to prepare for an examination? Indications for visiting a doctor at the MEDSI Clinic

A proctologist is a specialist who treats diseases of the rectum, large intestine and anus. You should contact this doctor immediately after the first signs of the disease are detected. MEDSI clinics employ experienced specialists who provide support to patients with a variety of proctological problems.

Proctologist specialization

A proctologist treats infectious, parasitic, congenital, inflammatory and oncological diseases of the intestine, colon and surrounding tissues. The specialist examines patients and collects anamnesis. You can also get medical advice from a professional.

Doctors have a therapeutic or surgical profile. Doctors of the first type carry out only conservative therapy, the second – surgical interventions.

What diseases does the doctor treat in women?

A proctologist treats:

• Hemorrhoids. This disease occurs due to varicose veins in the rectum and leads to the development of hemorrhoids that protrude from the anus, causing discomfort, bleeding and pain
• Anal fissures. This pathology occurs as a result of damage to the walls of the rectum
• Polyps in the colon. This pathology belongs to the category of benign formations and is hereditary in nature
• Paraproctitis. These diseases lead to inflammation of the perirectal tissues and the formation of fistulas
• Worm infestations
• Cancers

Women should consult a doctor when the first signs of any of the listed pathologies are detected.

These include:

• Constipation or fecal incontinence
• Pain in the anus
• Anal bleeding
• Discharge from anus mucus and pus
• Bloating

What diseases does it treat in men?

In men, proctologists treat the same diseases as in women.

You should consult a specialist for hemorrhoids, anal fissures, polyps, proctitis and paraproctitis. It is important to understand that only with timely diagnosis, diagnosis and treatment, one can count on the rapid elimination of not only the symptoms of diseases, but also their causes. Turning to a doctor in the early stages of the development of pathology, the patient receives adequate conservative therapy, which avoids the need for surgical intervention.

How to prepare for the examination?

Preparing for a proctologist examination is quite simple. You don’t have to go on a special diet or do cleansing enemas.

Follow these guidelines:

• It is recommended to have a bowel movement before going to the doctor. If necessary, you can take a laxative. This will allow the specialist to make a preliminary diagnosis
• One day before the appointment with the proctologist, you should exclude from the diet products that stimulate increased gas formation
• Immediately before going to the doctor, perform standard hygiene procedures (washing with soap)
• Try to calm down and not worry. There is nothing terrible and shameful in the examination by a proctologist. Doctor doing his job

How is the inspection?

An examination by a proctologist takes place in several stages:

• History taking and listening to patient complaints
• Primary examination. It is carried out by palpation. The organs are palpated by the doctor through the abdominal wall and through the anus. Such an examination allows you to assess the condition of the anal canal and closely located parts of the intestine. Diagnosis by palpation makes it possible to detect pathological formations and damage to the walls
• Anoscopy. To conduct this examination, an anoscope is used – a special device in the form of a hollow tube with a light tip and an adapter, which allows you to perform a visual examination of the walls of the rectum. For diagnosis, the patient lies on his side and pulls his legs to his stomach. The device is inserted into the anus and allows the doctor to see all the changes. In addition, during anoscopy, biopsy material is taken
• Sigmoidoscopy. This examination is carried out using a sigmoidoscope. Diagnosis is aimed at assessing the rectum and sigmoid colon, as well as the condition of the mucous membranes at a depth of up to 40 cm. The sigmoidoscope is a fiber optic tube with a lighting device. For diagnosis, the patient is asked to kneel and elbows. This ensures that the tool penetrates to the desired depth
• Colonoscopy. Such an examination belongs to the category of endoscopic and is one of the most informative. With such a diagnosis, tumors, ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease can be detected. The procedure can be not only diagnostic, but also therapeutic. Colonoscopy is also prescribed to stop bleeding, remove small benign tumors and remove foreign bodies from the rectum. Colonoscopy can be performed under anesthesia
• Laboratory studies. Patients often donate blood and feces

If dangerous pathologies are suspected, the following is additionally prescribed:

• Computed tomography
• Intestinal ozonation
• ultrasound
• Colon hydrotherapy

Proctologist examination of children

If your child complains of pain during bowel movements, experiences other problems of a proctological nature, you should immediately register him with a doctor. As a rule, the diagnosis of diseases in children is carried out using the palpation technique. Instrumental methods are not used because of the too small size of the rectum. Additionally, the doctor prescribes ultrasound, CT and other examinations that are non-invasive.

Who treats colitis – proctologist or gastroenterologist?

Proctologists are involved in the treatment of colitis, as well as other diseases of the lower digestive tract. They carry out both an initial examination and consultations, as well as a complete diagnosis, and further therapy. If necessary, an additional examination by a gastroenterologist is prescribed. If the situation is complex and confusing, doctors consult and decide on the treatment of pathology together.

Benefits of visiting a proctologist at MEDSI

• Use of the latest European diagnostic and treatment protocols
• Minimization of psychological uncertainty, feelings of fear and anxiety in patients
• Experienced doctors with many years of experience. Our proctologists in Moscow regularly improve their skills, undergo internships in the world’s leading clinics
• Using a range of modern diagnostic methods: laboratory tests, endoscopy of the anal canal and rectum. MRI of the pelvic and abdominal organs
• The use of minimally invasive endoscopic and surgical intervention techniques for the treatment of diseases of the large intestine, anal canal and perineum: sclerotherapy, infrared photocoagulation, node removal, laser operations
• Lack of queues and the possibility of making an appointment with a doctor at a convenient time

To make an appointment with a proctologist, just call: +7 ((495) 152-47-53.

Do not delay treatment, contact a doctor right now:

• Proctologist appointment

where to go when diagnosing a disease?

04/16/2023

3-5 minutes

1 455

Contents

• Principles of development of hemorrhoids
• Symptoms of disease
• Which doctor should I contact
• Why it is important to see a doctor

Show all

Hemorrhoids is the most common proctological disease: today almost 12% of the total adult population suffers from it, which is a lot, it occurs equally often in men and women. ¹ Nevertheless, even if the disease brings serious discomfort in everyday life, not everyone goes to the doctor: someone is embarrassed, and someone is afraid that the examination or treatment may be painful.

In the article we will tell you why it is important to consult a specialist with this disease, which doctor treats hemorrhoids and what the main symptoms look like.

Principles of development of hemorrhoids

But what causes hemorrhoids to develop and how does it happen? This disease is a hypertrophy of the cavernous veins of the rectal plexus of the rectum. In simple words, this is varicose veins of the rectum and anus, accompanied by inflammation, bleeding and soreness. The main predisposing factors are a sedentary lifestyle, heavy physical labor, frequent and prolonged constipation, pregnancy, certain eating habits, and much more. The leading role in the development of hemorrhoids is played by:

• hemodynamic factor . It is based on the excess of arterial blood inflow over venous outflow through the cavernous veins. Because of this, nodes are formed;

• muscular dystrophic factor . In this case, the dystrophy of the muscles and ligaments located in the anal canal plays a role. They hold internal hemorrhoids above the anorectal line. If their work is disturbed, hemorrhoids increase in size, shift, and eventually fall out of the anal canal.

Hemorrhoids can be external and internal, depending on which veins are affected: located inside the anal canal or outside, under the skin around the anus. ^{1, 2}

The disease develops gradually, has several stages and degrees of severity: if at first it causes a minimum of discomfort, then in the future, if there is no treatment, the symptoms may intensify.

Symptoms of the disease

Let’s analyze what symptoms should be a mandatory reason to see a doctor. So, for hemorrhoids, depending on the form and degree, I can be characterized by:

• bleeding from the rectum during defecation . The amount of blood can be different: someone notices very few drops on toilet paper, and for someone, every trip to the toilet causes profuse bleeding. Treatment is required in both cases – you should not take the problem lightly if there is little blood;

• prolapsed hemorrhoids . In the early stages, they enter the anal canal on their own, then this can only be done manually, and in the later stages this becomes impossible;

• pain, itching or any discomfort in the anus . They can be caused both by prolapse of internal nodes, and by inflammation of external ones, thrombosis. ^{1, 2}

You should not ignore these signs – if at least one of them appears, you need to consult a doctor.

Which doctor should I contact

Hemorrhoids are a pathology of the rectum. Proctologists or coloproctologists are engaged in the diagnosis and treatment of such diseases. Today, these two terms denote the same specialty: officially it is called “coloproctology”. Such specialists treat diseases of the large intestine, including the rectum, pelvic muscles and sacrum.

As part of the first visit, the doctor conducts an examination, so you will need to prepare for visiting the clinic – exactly how, you will be told in detail during the appointment.

Diagnosis proceeds as follows:

• the patient tells the doctor about when the first symptoms of the disease appeared, how it proceeded, what worries now;

• then an examination is carried out, a digital examination of the anal canal, and also in most cases anoscopy or sigmoidoscopy – examination of the rectum using a special device;

• in the future, a colonoscopy, laboratory tests may be prescribed.

All this will make it possible to make a diagnosis, determine the stage of hemorrhoids, its severity and prescribe the right treatment. At the first stages, it is usually conservative, it allows you to stop the symptoms of acute hemorrhoids, reduce the likelihood of complications and exacerbations. Mandatory correction of the diet and diet. In the early stages, this is enough to completely get rid of the symptoms. But if a person went to the doctor too late, it is not always possible to avoid surgical intervention. For treatment, minimally invasive methods or hemorrhoidectomy can be used – a full-fledged operation involving surgical excision of hemorrhoids. ³

As part of the conservative treatment of hemorrhoids, drugs in the form of rectal suppositories are actively used. Natalsid ^® belongs to such means.

This is a medicine whose main active ingredient is sodium alginate, which is obtained from brown seaweed. The herbal preparation can be used in the treatment of chronic bleeding hemorrhoids, chronic anal fissures in the epithelization stage and other proctological pathologies.

One of the main features: Natalside ^® is approved for use during pregnancy and lactation. ⁴

More

Why it is important to see a doctor

Many are embarrassed to go to the doctor with such a delicate problem, and in vain. There are several good reasons to see a specialist if you have symptoms that are characteristic of hemorrhoids.

• The sooner the diagnosis is made, the easier the treatment process will be . If in the early stages it is possible to confine oneself to conservative therapy and changing the diet, then, in the later stages, it will no longer be possible to do without surgical intervention. Hemorrhoidectomy requires a fairly long recovery, the postoperative period is associated with unpleasant sensations, so it is better to consult a doctor as soon as possible to avoid this.

• These symptoms may be characteristic of other diseases . Hemorrhoids are not the only pathology that can cause bleeding during bowel movements or pain in the anus. And only a doctor can make a correct diagnosis and prescribe treatment. Do not try to take medication for hemorrhoids on your own or use folk remedies that have helped someone you know. It is possible that you have a completely different disease with similar symptoms.
• Hemorrhoids are fraught with complications . This is not a relatively harmless disease that can only cause discomfort. Many dangerous complications are possible: from the transition of the inflammatory process to the surrounding tissues to gangrene. ³
• Hemorrhoids severely impair quality of life . Constant soreness, bleeding, prolapsed nodes that cause discomfort – all this affects daily life. Performance decreases, nervousness, irritability appear. Is embarrassment worth such sacrifices? It is better to consult a doctor, undergo treatment and return to normal life.

Knowing which doctor is needed when symptoms of hemorrhoids appear, it is important to understand why it is so important to contact him in time. If you or your loved ones have signs of this disease, make an appointment with a proctologist.

References

1. Mayat K. E. Modern methods of treating hemorrhoids // Attending physician, 2008.
   URL: https://www.lvrach.ru/
2. Clinical recommendations of the Ministry of Health of Russia: Hemorrhoids, 2020.
   URL: https://cr.minzdrav.gov.ru/
3. Vorobyov G. I., Grateful L. A. Conservative therapy of hemorrhoids // BC, 2001.
   URL: https://www.rmj.ru/
4. Instructions for use of the medicinal product Natalside ^® .